Arenal Volcano National Park
Region: Alajuela Province
Nature
Representative tourist destination featuring conical active volcano and hot spring resorts.
Tourism in Costa Rica
Explore notable sights and destinations in this country
Tourist attractions
Manuel Antonio National Park
Region: Puntarenas Province
Nature
Coastal park with white sand beaches and monkeys, sloths visible.
Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve
Region: Puntarenas Province
Nature
Cloud forest famous for canopy trails and diverse orchids.
Tortuguero National Park
Region: Limón Province
Nature
Canoe tourism sanctuary known as sea turtle nesting site.
Corcovado National Park
Region: Osa Peninsula
Nature
Tropical rainforest deemed the most biodiverse on Earth.
San José National Theatre
Region: San José city
Cultural heritage
Renaissance-style opera house completed in 1897.
Guanacaste Conservation Area
Region: Guanacaste Province
Natural heritage
UNESCO World Heritage dry forests and mangroves.
Irazú Volcano National Park
Region: Cartago Province
Nature
Popular for moon-like crater lake and 360-degree panorama.
Diquís Stone Spheres Site
Region: Puntarenas Province
Cultural heritage
World Heritage site with mysterious pre-Columbian giant stone spheres.
Santa Teresa Beach
Region: Nicoya Peninsula
Resort
Internationally popular surfer and yoga traveler sanctuary.
Suggested itineraries
Volcanoes and Hot Springs Route
Duration (days): 5
Highlights: Arenal Volcano, La Fortuna Hot Springs, Irazú Volcano, San José Old Town
Short tour centered on central highlands enjoying volcanic terrain and hot springs.
Caribbean Eco Tour
Duration (days): 7
Highlights: Tortuguero canals, Sea turtle observation, Puerto Viejo, Cahuita National Park
Experience unique culture blending jungle waterways and Caribbean music.
Pacific Coast Surf & Dive
Duration (days): 8
Highlights: Santa Teresa, Playa Hermosa, Manuel Antonio, Cocos Island cruise
Tour of advanced surf spots and world-class dive sites.
Travel tips
- Rainy season (May-Nov) requires waterproof gear for squall protection.
- US dollars widely accepted and available at ATMs, but also prepare small Colones.
- Tap water drinkable in cities but bottled water safer in rural areas.
- Insect repellent and sunscreen essential year-round.
- National parks have visitor limits so advance booking advisable.
- Legally prohibited to approach or feed wildlife.
- Roads in mountainous areas often steep, 4WD rental car convenient.
- Hammocks and sandals cheaply available near beaches.
- Wi-Fi commonly free at tourist area hotels and cafes.
- Restaurants include 10% service charge, taxis do not require tips.